Wild Swimming, Seal Spotting, and Sunset Cruises: Summer on the North Devon Coast
April 22, 2026
Lundy Island sits 12 miles off the North Devon coast, visible from the cliffs above Ilfracombe on a clear day — and yet it remains one of those places that most people who live nearby have never visited. The Ilfracombe Princess changes that, offering day trips and cruises from Ilfracombe harbour that make this extraordinary island genuinely accessible.
About Lundy
Lundy is 3 miles long, half a mile wide, and home to a permanent population of around 28 people, a small herd of sika deer, Soay sheep, and some of England’s most important seabird colonies. The island is managed by the Landmark Trust, which maintains the buildings and accommodation.
It’s also England’s only statutory Marine Conservation Zone — the waters around Lundy host grey seals in large numbers, and summer brings basking sharks, common dolphins, and exceptional marine biodiversity. The clarity of the water here is unlike almost anywhere else on the English coast.
The Crossing Aboard the Ilfracombe Princess
The Princess is a licensed passenger vessel, comfortable and well-suited to the Bristol Channel crossing. The journey itself is often a wildlife experience — seabirds accompany the boat, porpoise are frequently spotted, and on the approach to Lundy the island reveals itself dramatically from the sea. Seals can often be seen hauled out on the rocks as you approach.
What to Do on Lundy
On a day trip, there’s enough time to walk across the island to the west side (where the Atlantic swell breaks against 120-metre cliffs and the puffin burrows are), visit the pub — yes, there’s a pub — pick up provisions from the island’s tiny shop, and return to the landing bay at your leisure. The pace is unhurried and the absence of cars, shops, and phone signal is the point.
Booking Your Trip
The Ilfracombe Princess operates to Lundy and on coastal cruises throughout the season. Lundy trips are particularly popular on bank holiday weekends and through August — early booking is advised. We also offer evening cruises and private charter.
Book at ilfracombeprincess.co.uk or contact us directly to discuss availability.